Where the Locals Go

A series of reviews by Giaunin Roà, owner/operator of Villa Favolosa B&B (www.villafavolosa.com) a 400-year-old villa with three guest rooms in the province of Cuneo in Piemonte. Giaunin's official status was italiano nato all’estero, or Italian born abroad. That all changed in 2006 when he “repatriated” in order to renovate his family’s 400 year old homestead in Piemonte and operate it as Villa Favolosa B&B.

Prior to that, Giuanin had a diverse professional career which has helped prepare him for life in Piemonte. He started out in government service for the court system, then worked for a decade in the private sector at several mid-size Chicago law firms. In the 1990’s his interest in local history and architecture led him to change career paths and he began developing residental real estate, specializing in historically sensitive renovations of the vernacular Chicago bungalow. Then five years ago, his interests in history and architecture once again led me change course, this time to Italy, where he is learning all that he can about the traditions and culture of our beautiful Monregalese.

Giuanin joined the Slow Travel Talk forums as "Giuanin in Piemonte " on March 24, 2008. Giuanin has demonstrated his passion for Piemonte through is posts and recognized a series of articles, featuring restaurants that serve typical Piemontese cuisne would benefit our readers. We hope you enjoy his offerings.

Where the Locals Go

Introduction: the inspiration behind highlighting restaurants at which the locals dine

Trattoria Da Franca: description of a wonderful meal at a local, family run trattoria for less than €25.

Ristorante Corsaglia: This family-run establishment has year after year been recommended in the Slow Food - Osterie d’Italia guide of traditional places to eat.

Il Baluardo: Marc, together with his wife and sommelière, Amy Bellotti, have created a beautiful and elegant restaurant in the historic center of Mondovì.